SAR honors Griffin house volunteers

Joyce Mahr, from left; Marcia McPherson, Joe Bowen, Gary Papp and William Roberts at the recent medal presentations at the Betty Griffin House.

Special to The Record

Three volunteers at the Betty Griffin House were recently recognized for their service to the community and the Betty Griffin House.

Gary Papp, Marcia McPherson and Joe Bowen received the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution’s (NSSAR) Bronze Good Citizenship Medal and Certificate. This medal, authorized by the NSSAR in 1895, recognizes individuals who make noteworthy contributions to their community.

■ Papp has served the Betty Griffin House for six years. He has also volunteered at the St. Gerard House and the St. Francis Soup Kitchen.

■ McPherson has been a volunteer at the Betty Griffin House since 1998 and is currently the CPR instructor for the agency’s staff. She joined the sexual assault advocacy program when it was initiated in 2006 and is a strong advocate for victims of sexual attacks.

Bowen has been the Betty Griffin House “Santa” for the past five years at the annual party for children and families. He takes his role of Santa seriously, delivering not only presents, but also warmth, genuine care and concern for the children and their families, it was noted in the presentation.

In addition, Bowen links the Betty Griffin House with other agencies and donors in the community to ensure that every child has a gift during the holidays.

The medals and certificates were presented by William Roberts, past president of the St. Augustine Chapter of the SAR. Also in attendance at the presentation was Dr. Oscar Patterson, current chapter president; and Joyce Mahr, director of the Betty Griffin House.

The National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution was organized on April 30, 1889 — the 100th anniversary of the inauguration of George Washington as the first President of the United States. It was chartered by an Act of Congress on June 9, 1906, with the charter being signed by President Theodore Roosevelt, a member of the SAR.

The St. Augustine of the SAR meets on the third Saturday, September through May at 11 a.m. at the Le Pavillon Restaurant in St. Augustine. Those interested in membership are invited to attend.